For the third consecutive year since 2013, Memphis Light, Gas and Water topped the list for having the lowest combined winter residential bill among 30 metropolitan areas.

The survey looked at what a typical home would use in terms of electricity, natural gas, water and wastewater services. MLGW provides services for lights, gas and water.

Memphis Mayor AC Wharton Jr. said he wasn’t surprised at the news of the continued success in keeping utility rates low.

“We pay too much attention to what kind of tax incentives that we should give to recruit businesses and industry here. I think, perhaps, we ought to downplay that and play up that there is a distinct advantage that is perpetual,” he said. “These tax incentives run out after, seven, eight, ten years. The cost for competitive, low utility prices is something that never, ever, ever runs out. It is a distinct competitive advantage which we have to do a better job of marketing.”

Since the utility company started tracking its rates in 1991, MLGW has consistently scored among the lowest in selected markets.

In 2012, Omaha and Springfield, Mo. pushed MLGW to a third place finish. In 2011, MLGW ranked second again behind Springfield.

A local resident would pay $251.06 a month for the four services compared to someone living in Boston who would fork out $603.23 a month. Boston came in last among the metro areas which responded to the survey.

Among Tennessee cities, Jackson ranked 12th with a monthly winter bill of $352.87, followed by Chattanooga (14th with a $357.18 monthly bill), Nashville (20th with a $401.83 monthly bill) and Knoxville in the 24th spot with a $450.45 monthly bill.

In 2014, a typical MLGW winter residential bill was $278.25. But for 2015, the bill dropped about $27 to $251.06. The savings resulted largely in how MLGW buys its gas and reflects the dropping gas prices in the market place.